The Vancouver Police Department says an 87-year-old man in East Vancouver was targeted by a distraction theft on Wednesday afternoon, and it is urging seniors to watch for similar tactics.
The Story
The Vancouver Police Department (VPD) issued a new warning to seniors after an 87-year-old man was victimized in East Vancouver on Wednesday afternoon.
According to the VPD, the man was walking near Renfrew Street and East 1st Avenue when he was approached by a man and a woman in a white car. The woman engaged him in conversation from the passenger seat and, while shaking his hand, placed fake jewelry on his wrist while removing his ring.
After the car left, the man noticed the ring was missing and returned home to call police.
“Distraction theft suspects will often appear friendly and make excuses to get close to their victims,” VPD Sgt. Adam Donaldson said. “We want seniors to be aware of the tactics these thieves use so they can avoid becoming victims in the first place.”
The VPD reminded seniors to be cautious of strangers who get unusually close or try physical contact, to step back if someone invades their personal space, and not to allow strangers to handle their belongings.
← More stories